The quadruple shape is formed by strands of DNA wrapping themselves in a formation that previously went unnoticed. Professor Shankar Balasubramanian, the leader of the study, described it as a quite distinct structure from the double helix, and said that he was convinced it exists naturally. The reason for all the publicity behind the discovery is that it may be the key to finding new ways of selectively inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. As any cancer patient knows, the prospect of lessening the aggressive effects of chemotherapy and using a more guided alternative would mean wonders for wellbeing.
The Cambridge University study claims that the discovery of the quadruple helix structure is a ‘landmark’ in the field of cancer research. Their research demonstrates a link between trapping the quadruplexes with molecules, and the ability to stop cells dividing. DNA molecules are made up of four ‘bases’, known as C, G, A and T. When there is a high amount of the G unit, guanine, the typical double-stranded molecule breaks down into four strands. During the study, scientists were able to trap these quadruplex structures using man-made molecules, and discovered that they could actually interfere with the process of cell division as it happened. The conclusion they drew from the study is that the quadruple helix structure is intimately involved with the process of cell division. Developing methods of manipulating these molecules could prove a valuable direction in cancer research.
It is vital that the wellness of those undergoing cancer treatment remains a priority in cancer research. Chemo- and radio- therapy are traumatic processes that entail getting worse before getting better. Such aggressive treatments always involve a compromise – the patient will be severely weakened by these processes and may lose the ability to fight. The development of improvements to chemotherapy medication would be overwhelmingly welcome news to the many thousands of people going through cancer treatment every year.